Rolex Yacht Master 42

The Oysterflex rubber strap is extremely comfortable thanks to a layer of padding on the inside, and it extends right up to the case in a way that you can also see on the Rolex Yacht-Master in Everose rose gold. The maxi dots on the dial have grown in proportion to the larger diameter, ensure a balanced, harmonious appearance.

The Yacht-Master 42 is equipped with a bezel of matt black ceramic that can be rotated in both directions. The colour of the bezel and the shiny black dial are perfectly coordinated, giving the watch a feeling of effortless grace and style. The Rolex Yacht-Master 42's white gold casing is the luxurious finishing touch to this carefully thought out design.

Elegant simplicity

In contrast to the previous models, the Yacht-Master 42 has no red or blue colour accents. Instead, the dial opts for a pared back palette. The numbers are in white, providing a sharp contrast to the shiny black dial without being too intrusive.

Luxury materials paired with technical sophistication

The watch case and clasp of the Yacht-Master 42 are made of 18 carat white gold. This use of precious metal contrasts strongly with the utility-inspired Oysterflex strap. And while the white gold is satisfyingly heavy, the rubber bracelet provides an enjoyably light, pleasant feeling on the wrist. The clasp features innovative Glidelock technology, enabling fine adjustments to the fit in 2.5 mm increments.

The 3235 movement

Rolex equipped the Yacht-Master 42 with a next generation mechanism, the 3235 movement. Its presence is signalled by the crown slotted discreetly between the words "Swiss Made" at six o'clock. The movement has a power reserve of around 70 hours, and it comes with the new Chronergy escapement and Parachrom Bleu hairspring.

So far, the Yacht Master series has been one of the more under-appreciated collections from the Geneva-based watchmaker. But thanks to its simple yet distinctive design and state of the art technology, the Rolex Yacht-Master 42 has what it takes to be a classic.

The 2019 version is a relatively new model in fine white gold with a technical update, so you should expect the cost to be commensurately high, in the five digit region. However, while the list price is £28,230, you can pick the Rolex Yacht-Master 42 from CHRONEXT at a competitive price of only £27,870. Pre-owned models are currently scarce, but the market is sure to grow over the next few years.

The Yacht-Master made its debut in 1992 with the launch of the first version in yellow gold with the 2135 movement. Just two years later, the Swiss firm released reference numbers 69628 and 68628, two models that were a hit with the watch community thanks to their versatile, compact case diameter. Further 29mm and 35mm versions followed in yellow gold. From 1996 a stainless steel variant came onto the market.

At Baselworld 1999, Rolex caused a sensation with the reference number model 16622. This new Yacht-Master was crafted from Rolesium, an innovative mix of a stainless steel case and bracelet combined with a rotating platinum bezel. The waiting lists were long for this extremely popular edition. Around six years later, the Geneva-based brand issued a further new model, this time made from another groundbreaking alloy, Rolesor. The Yacht-Master reference code 16623 is a breathtaking two-tone model in stainless steel and gold.

While it has sometimes been overshadowed by more famous Rolex collections, the Yacht-Master series has gained a large following over the years. Thanks to its variety of materials, dial colours and case diameters, it appeals to a wide range of customers.

In 2012, to celebrate the 20th anniversary of the Yacht-Master, Rolex delighted fans with another update. The bezel on this version has a locking mechanism comprised of 120 teeth that deliver a satisfying feeling of resistance as you swivel it in either direction. Another improvement is the use of Chromalight luminescent material on the hands and indexes, so you can easily read the time even in very poor lighting. Finally, 2019 saw the release of the Yacht-Master 42, with which Rolex once again outdid itself.

If you're interested in putting up your Rolex Yacht-Master 42 for sale, don't hesitate to contact our experienced team. We'll support you in all aspects of selling and trading your luxury watch, and help you to get the best possible deal. Whether you opt for trading in, selling by commission or direct sales, our specialists will give you all the information you need to make the choice that's right for you. Simply contact us by phone, email or live chat, or fill out our online form. We look forward to hearing from you.